THE GLOBAL OFFICE: A NEW OPPORTUNITY FOR THE CITY OF BUENOS AIRES?

Abstract

Across industries, companies are reducing costs by minimizing office space and sourcing talent from geographic areas with lower salaries. These two changes have accelerated the adoption of teleworking and could foster an exodus of jobs from leading innovation hubs ("sending cities") to emerging areas ("receiving cities"). In response to the pandemic, municipalities have launched programs to lure workers worldwide and underpin sectors such as tourism and hospitality. This thesis analyzes the main enablers and barriers for teleworking in the City of Buenos Aires and explores the potential economic, spatial, and social implications, particularly considering the influx of high-income earners. Understanding the factors that affect these initiatives and their implications can contribute to the design of national and local policies that attract new visitors and residents, while preserving urban inclusion, resilience, sustainability, and livability.